In the recently concluded Modi-Trump interface, maritime security was stressed thrice by the US president.
The joint statement acknowledged the need for both countries to play meaningful and legitimate roles in the ‘Indo-Pacific’ and to ensure freedom of movement at sea consistent with international norms.
What does it mean for India?
The term “Indo-Pacific” was first coined by then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 2008.
The Americans soon shied away from it and put out the more convoluted terminology of “Indo-Asia-Pacific”.
By using the old term again, it seems that the US recognises India’s legitimate role in waters stretching from the Suez Canal to the waters of the western Pacific.
India is an Indian Ocean Region (IOR) player, but given its size, interests and growing maritime trade, its concerns extend beyond it.
So, even though India is not a South China Sea littoral state, it cannot remain excluded from developments that are taking place there.
Its inclusion as party to the Indo-Pacific provides exactly that recognition. And, this is fully consistent with our long-term interests.
How cooperation at sea should be?
Cooperation at sea involves not just ships carrying out exercises over a couple of days, but understanding the whys and the wherefores.
This can come about only if there is some degree of synergy of doctrines, and for this to happen information sharing is important. So, some compromise seems necessary.
In the IOR, India has to become a net security provider and that will often require joint operations with the US.
Also, the Malabar series is clearly an Indo-Pacific event and lends credibility to India’s aspirations and potential.
Meanwhile, these elements must be added the American clearance for the supply of nearly two dozen Guardian drones for the Indian Navy.
The Indian Navy also has an enquiry ongoing for nearly five dozen fighter aircraft to operate from aircraft carriers at sea.
Procurement of major military hardware must always be seen through the prism of geopolitical interests more than just financial cost.
The dialogue just concluded gives India an opportunity to make the required course correction.
